Severe Tropical Storm Paolo slightly intensifies

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MANILA, Philippines – Severe Tropical Storm Paolo (Lan) slightly intensified and accelerated a bit as it continued moving over the Philippine Sea on Tuesday evening, October 17.

In a bulletin issued 11 pm on Tuesday, state weather bureau PAGASA said Paolo is already 675 kilometers east northeast of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It is moving north northeast at a slightly faster 15 kilometers per hour (km/h) from the previous 10 km/h.

The severe tropical storm now has maximum winds of 105 km/h and gustiness of up to 130 km/h.

PAGASA said Paolo could strengthen further into a typhoon within the next 24 to 36 hours. (READ: FAST FACTS: Tropical cyclones, rainfall advisories)

There are no areas under tropical cyclone warning signals since Paolo is too far from land, and it is not expected to make landfall in the Philippines.

But the outer rainbands of the severe tropical storm are bringing light to heavy rain to Bicol, the Visayas, and Mindanao. These areas should watch out for possible floods and landslides. (READ: NDRRMC to local officials: Prepare for Severe Tropical Storm Paolo, LPA)

Paolo is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Sunday, October 22.

PAGASA also continues to monitor a low pressure area (LPA), which has a slim chance of developing into a tropical cyclone.

The LPA is already 200 kilometers west northwest of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, bringing light to heavy rain to the province. (READ: Puerto Princesa Underground River tours suspended due to LPA)

PAGASA also warned of moderate to rough seas in the eastern seaboard of Southern Luzon, of the Visayas, and of Mindanao. – Rappler.com